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Work has started on a new access road which marks the start of work on the North Greenwich Transport Interchange - the largest in London when opened in time for the Jubilee Line Extension in March 1998.
The Transport Interchange is a landmark building which takes the form of a dramatic roof, 160 metres wide, supported by a tree-like structure of steel. The geometry of the roof is derived from a portion of a sphere one kilometre in diameter. Underneath this great canopy, like a symbolic gateway, is the access to the Jubilee Line Extension as well as buses, taxis and private cars.
Commuters will be able to use the 1,000 space car park or be dropped off to continue their journey by public transport. At peak times the Interchange will cater for over 76 buses per hour. Pedestrian movement from the building has been carefully considered so that the heart of the site can be reached without crossing any major roads.
The image of the roof has been likened to the spread of a wing. It is perforated to allow in natural light which will illuminate the deepest spaces. Suspended glass along the edges will provide weather protection but also allows natural ventilation.
The Interchange will be a catalyst for the future redevelopment of the whole of the Greenwich Peninsular and will be the main entrance to the Millennium Festival Celebrations. It will help the capital’s traffic congestion by reducing the number of cars in Central London.
